Three choice lots from upcoming Heritage auctions
Pulp Magazines
In the classic pulp adventure “The Man of Bronze” by Lester Dent, featured in 1933’s Doc Savage No. 1, the titular hero makes his first appearance, giving readers one of the most iconic debuts in pulp fiction. One of the greatest pulp heroes ever created, Doc Savage was also a major influence on the creation of Superman — and the nascent comic book industry as well — just a few years later. The cover is the first of many created for the title by the spectacular Walter Baumhofer.
Doc Savage No. 1 March 1933 (Street & Smith) CGC VG+ 4.5
Auction: June 5-6
Ethnographic Art
Finely worked in rich gold alloy, this circa 800–1200 pendant joins two frogs in a symmetrical composition, each with a notched band running down the back and long, raised pointed-oval eyes. The paired creatures appear to grasp a single serpent in their mouths, terminating in a head at each end. Broad lower terminals anchor the design, while the streaming curves above create a lively rhythmic crest. Four loops at the reverse allow the arresting composition to be suspended.
A Large Gold Double Frog Pendant
Panama, probably Coclé or Greater Chiriquí, c. 800–1200 AD
Auction: June 17
World Coins
Struck exclusively for inclusion in Queen Victoria’s long-delayed 1839 Proof Set, this William Wyon-designed piece captures the height of medallic artistry. The mintage, reportedly limited to just over 400 pieces, was quickly outpaced by demand. So enduring was its appeal that the Royal Mint continued producing examples on request for nearly half a century, until 1886. This particularly Choice specimen stands out not only for its precise execution, but for the lovely preservation of its design.
Victoria gold Proof “Una and the Lion” 5 Pounds 1839 PR63 Ultra Cameo NGC
Auction: June 17-19